DUDLEY KNOX LIBRARY
Naval Postgraduate School
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DUDLEY KNOX LIBRARY |
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Description
Colombia's oldest, largest, most capable, and
best equipped insurgency. Established in 1964 nominally as military wing
of Colombian Communist Party. Organized along military lines and
includes several urban fronts. Has been anti-US since its inception.
Entered slow-moving peace negotiation process with the Pastrana
Administration in January.
Activities
Bombings, murders, kidnappings, extortion,
hijackings, as well as armed insurgent attacks against Colombian
political, military, and economic targets. In March 1999 the FARC
brutally murdered three US Indian rights activists on Venezuelan
territory whom they had kidnapped in Colombia. Foreign citizens often
are targets of FARC kidnappings for ransom. Has well-documented ties to
narcotics traffickers, principally through the provision of armed
protection. During 1999 continued its bombing campaign against oil
pipelines.
Strength
Approximately 8,000 to 12,000 armed combatants,
and an unknown number of supporters, mostly in rural areas.
Location/Area of Operation
Colombia with increasing
presence and operations in Venezuela, Panama, Ecuador, and Brazil.
External Aid
Cuba provides some medical care and political
consultation.
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